Vancouver Criminal Defence Lawyer
The experienced criminal defence lawyers at Filkow Law are available to protect your rights from the moment you are investigated, arrested, or charged.
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Filkow Law is one of the leading criminal and driving law firms in Vancouver, covering Burnaby, Coquitlam, the University Endowment Lands, New Westminster, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. When you are charged with a criminal offence in British Columbia, you need a lawyer who knows the law and the local courts. Filkow Law has built a strong reputation in BC for its strategic advice and exceptional results.
How Can Our Criminal Defence Lawyers Help You with Your Case in Vancouver?
Early legal advice can change the outcome of your case. When you work with the firm, your lawyer will work to protect your rights from the first call to the final case resolution.
Initial Consultation and Legal Advice
Your first meeting is confidential. Your lawyer will analyze your case and the applicable law, then outline your options and next steps.
Communication with Police and Crown Counsel
Once retained, all future contact with police and Crown counsel goes through your criminal defence lawyer in Vancouver. This protects your right to silence under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and ensures nothing you say is used against you.
Disclosure and Evidence Review
Your lawyer will request and review the full Crown disclosure package, including police reports, witness statements, video evidence, expert analysis and forensic materials. Every detail is examined for Charter breaches and weaknesses in the Crown’s case.
Developing a Defence Strategy
After reviewing the evidence, the firm may negotiate with the Crown, file applications to challenge the evidence, prepare for trial, or any combination of the above. The experienced criminal defence lawyers at the firm will provide an explanation so you understand every decision that is being made.
Representation in Court
You will have an advocate present on your behalf in every court proceeding, from initial appearances to trial. Your criminal defence lawyer will be focused on achieving the best available outcome for you.
Charged with a criminal offence?
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Criminal Defence Lawyer in Vancouver Practice Areas
Criminal charges can vary widely, but every case demands thorough preparation and a strategic approach. The lawyers at Filkow Law handle a broad range of offences throughout British Columbia. Their focus is always on working toward the best outcome available under the law.
Criminal Driving Offences
The firm defends drivers charged with criminal driving offences, including impaired driving, refusal to provide a breath sample, driving with an illegal blood alcohol content (over 80), dangerous driving, failing to remain at the scene of an accident (hit and run), flight from police, and driving while prohibited.
Sexual Assault
The firm handles sexual offence cases discreetly and strategically. The lawyers at Filkow Law handle cases involving all manner of factual circumstances.
Drug and Money Offences
Drug and financial crime cases include possession, trafficking, production, importation, and exportation of all controlled drugs and substances, as well as all proceeds of crime offences. The criminal defence lawyers at Filkow Law review the Crown’s case to identify weaknesses — in particular, those relating to police warrants and Charter rights — to fight for the best possible outcome.
Theft and Property Offences
Theft, fraud, and possession of stolen property charges can lead to lasting consequences. The lawyers at Filkow Law have defended clients in cases ranging from shoplifting to large-scale fraud investigations.
Assault Offences
Assault offences include assault, domestic assault, assault causing bodily harm, assault by choking, assault with a weapon, aggravated assault, uttering threats, forcible confinement, robbery, and domestic assault. Filkow Law prepares custom defences tailored for each case.
Learn More About Our ServicesThe Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in British Columbia
A criminal conviction can end in more than just fines or jail time. A single conviction can have long-term effects on your employment, immigration status, travel, and personal reputation. When you know what you are up against, you can make better choices for your defence. Some other consequences of a criminal conviction include:
- Inadmissibility to Canada (removal from the country/deportation)
- Sex offender registration (SOIRA)
- Firearms prohibitions
- Driving prohibitions or licence suspensions
- DNA registration
- International travel restrictions
- Fines, restitution, or other financial penalties
- Probation or court-ordered conditions
The lawyers at Filkow Law will work to protect your rights and explore every possible option to avoid or minimize the impact of a conviction.
Why Choose a Criminal Defence Lawyer at Filkow Law?
The lawyers at the firm have earned a strong reputation across British Columbia for their experience, professionalism, and exceptional results in criminal defence. The firm’s lead lawyer, Kevin A. Filkow, also worked as a former Crown prosecutor. The team combines decades of courtroom experience with a collaborative approach to give every client the full benefit of the firm’s collective insight and resources.
Vast Criminal Defence Experience
The team handles the full range of criminal charges under federal and provincial legislation, from summary conviction matters to serious indictable offences. They have appeared in courts across British Columbia.
Proven Results and Track Record
From first-time charges to long-running criminal investigations, the Vancouver criminal defence lawyers at Filkow Law know how BC courts work and how Crown counsel builds its case. That knowledge is what allows them to find weaknesses in the evidence and build a defence that fits your specific circumstances.
Client-Centred, Strategic Approach
When you hire Filkow Law, you have the benefit of a full legal team, not a single criminal defence lawyer. You will always know where your case stands, what your options are, and what comes next.
Multilingual Service: English, French, Punjabi, Hindi, and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese)
An effective defence depends on clear communication. Filkow Law serves the diverse communities in six languages: English, French, Punjabi, Hindi, Mandarin, and Cantonese. You can speak freely, ask every question, and make fully informed decisions at every stage of your case.
Meet the Team at Filkow Law
Mentored by prominent Canadian litigators, Kevin Filkow built a successful practice spanning over three decades. His background as a former Crown prosecutor provides the firm with distinct insight into the prosecution’s perspective.
Filkow Law is a recognized authority in British Columbia, known for achieving significant results in criminal and driving cases. Clients rely on the firm’s deep legal knowledge, extensive professional network, and collective resources to manage the justice system effectively.
Meet Our TeamWhat Clients Say About Our Criminal Defence Services in British Columbia
Clients regularly turn to Filkow Law for experienced representation. The firm has represented over 7,000 clients across British Columbia in over 200 different types of offences defended with positive outcomes. The reviews below reflect what clients consistently experience: professional communication, thorough preparation, and defence lawyers who fight for the best possible outcome.
FACING A CRIMINAL CHARGE?
What Is the Time Limit to Lay a Criminal Charge?
Once you are investigated for a criminal offence, acting promptly matters. The type of charge affects the amount of time the Crown has to lay a charge.
- Summary conviction offences must be started no later than 12 months of the alleged incident, unless the accused agrees otherwise.
- Indictable offences have no time limit, so prosecution can begin at any point.
- Hybrid offences may proceed by summary conviction or indictment, depending on the prosecutor. Most offences in Canada are hybrid.
Your first appearance in court could be as soon as the date you were charged.
Failing to attend court can result in a warrant for your arrest. Contacting the firm right away gives the lawyers time to explore possible defences in advance so they can begin in the strongest possible position.
How Much Does a Criminal Defence Lawyer at Filkow Law Cost?
The firm tailors its approach to each unique situation. A simple matter naturally differs from a lengthy trial involving intricate evidence and multiple expert witnesses. To gain an accurate understanding of the resources required to secure the best possible defence for your circumstances, contact the firm for a private consultation.
Don’t Waste Time! Call a Criminal Defence Lawyer at Filkow Law Today
Your defence can move forward even before you step into a courtroom. When you contact Filkow Law early, you help the lawyers jump in and review the details so they can take immediate steps to protect your rights. The firm will handle the legal process so you can focus on your life. Reach out to Filkow Law now to speak directly with a lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing a criminal charge can be overwhelming, and you likely have many questions right now. Here, the criminal defence lawyers at the firm provide direct answers to the most common questions clients ask the lawyers at the firm about the legal process and their rights.
What is the very first step I should take after being arrested in Vancouver?
Exercise your right to counsel immediately. Ask to speak with a lawyer. This right is protected under section 10(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Do not give a statement to the police, even a brief or informal one. Anything you say to the police can be used as evidence against you at trial.
What is the purpose of a bail hearing, and why is legal representation crucial?
A bail hearing (formally called a judicial interim release hearing under section 515 of the Criminal Code of Canada) is where a justice decides whether you can be released from custody while your case is ongoing. Without a lawyer, you risk being held or released under unnecessarily restrictive conditions. A criminal defence lawyer in Vancouver at Filkow Law will present a release plan, respond to the Crown’s detention arguments, and advocate for the least restrictive conditions possible before a BC Provincial Court judge.
Can a criminal defence lawyer have my charges resolved without a full trial?
Yes. Many criminal cases in BC are resolved before trial. A criminal defence lawyer in Vancouver can negotiate with Crown counsel for a stay of proceedings, withdrawal of charges, or a plea to a lesser offence. The options available depend on the specifics of each case.
If I’m charged with a summary conviction offence, do I still need a criminal defence lawyer in Vancouver?
Yes. Even a summary conviction offence under the Criminal Code of Canada can result in a criminal record, which can affect your employment, immigration status, professional licences, and ability to travel to the United States.
How do I choose the right criminal defence lawyer for my specific case?
Look for a lawyer with direct experience in the specific charge you are facing: impaired driving (DUI), sexual assault, drug trafficking, or domestic assault. Each requires different courtroom expertise. The lawyers at Filkow Law have experience in every type of criminal offence, from shoplifting to murder.
What is a Peace Bond, and is it an option a criminal defence lawyer can pursue?
A Peace Bond is a court order under section 810 of the Criminal Code of Canada requiring you to comply with various conditions for up to 12 months. It is not an admission of guilt to a criminal charge. Whether it is available will depend on the unique circumstances of each case.
Can I discuss my case with a lawyer in Mandarin or Cantonese in Vancouver?
Yes. If you or a family member has been charged with a criminal offence in the city and is more comfortable discussing your case in Chinese, contact Filkow Law directly, and the firm will make sure you are speaking with the right person from the start.
Can I get criminal defence representation in Punjabi in Vancouver?
Yes. Filkow Law provides criminal defence services in Punjabi across the city and the province.
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Mon - Fri: 8:00AM - 7:00PM
Address
450 Southwest Marine Drive #510, Vancouver, BC V5X 0C3, Canada
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Have questions or need immediate legal help? Contact Filkow Law today for a confidential consultation — we’re here to protect your rights.
